Description
Book SynopsisThe horrific world of modern slavery is exposed in this book based on the first-hand experiences of victims of human trafficking. Through the stories of three remarkable individuals who share how they fell victim to traffickers and how their bodies and souls resisted an enterprise of total destruction, Monique Villa takes us around the world—from Ohio to Tokyo, London to India, Qatar to Colombia—to uncover a parallel world where men, women, and children are dehumanized and reduced to obedient machines. Written by a global leader in the fight against human trafficking, this powerful book uncovers the hidden world of slaves—no longer physically in chains—who walk among us, trapped in a cycle of exploitation. Despite significant progress in the fight for human rights, slavery continues to flourish. In fact, there are more slaves today, in countries rich and poor, than at any point in the past.By giving voice to survivors of this horrific trade, Villa vividly illustrates dire situations we can do something about. Her call to action outlines concrete steps to safeguard the vulnerable among us and to eliminate slavery in our time.
Trade ReviewAs a survivor myself, I know firsthand how Monique’s fierce and relentless drive in fighting modern slavery and empowering those who have endured it has been transformative. Her knowledge and expertise, strengthened over many years of being at the frontline of this fight, is stamped on every page of this book, a real page turner. -- Evelyne Chumbow, survivor of forced labor
I discovered sex trafficking through filming SOLD, and Monique Villa’s book is an eye opener on the human experience of slavery. She keeps the survivors’ voices and weaves them with a global insight into modern slavery. I don’t usually feel hopeful when I read about the issue, but this book had that effect on me. A tour de force. -- Gillian Anderson, award-winning actress
Monique Villa’s years of experience as an esteemed journalist, along with her tenacity and passion to protect those who suffer in modern slavery, is so clearly demonstrated in this book. She has led the way in the fight against slavery, bringing so many along with her. -- Kevin Hyland, former UK Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner
Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Preface: Why? 1 Who Are the Modern Slaves? 2 The Most Despicable Crime: Techniques of the Human-Trafficking Business Model 3 From Nepal to Qatar: Debt Bondage 4 A Tattoo on Your Soul: Corruption and Impunity 5 The Psychological Impact of Enslavement 6 The Children of Bal Ashram 7 In the Mind of a Trafficker 8 Limited Options 9 Business Is Key—To the Problem and the Solution 10 Solutions: From Individuals to Cross-Sector Engagement, Worldwide 11 My Heroes Index
